Even the worshipping must close,chandipaath song-cycles must end for now too,
dancing must stop —
not cease for good,
but just pause for a moment —
to reflect and pray
for peace, love and well-being.

The tenth day is here —
and I have to immerse you
in the river-waters of Yamuna
with my own hands.
Letting go is difficult,
but it must be done for catharsis,
for celebration, for camaraderie — for us.

As I gently lower you in the waters
amid the fading evening light,
clamour and din of all that is familiar —
your body melts in my hand